Researching a visit to Northern Thailand? Get inspired by this episode of the Tour the World travel TV series as we join On The Go Tours on a fabulous journey of discovery through the northern provinces, with more than a few cultural and culinary surprises along the way...

Looking for ideas on things to do in Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand? In this episode of the Tour the World travel TV series we join On The Go Tours on tour through fabulous northern Thailand. The tour takes in bustling Bangkok and the key northern centres of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.

The southern beaches and islands of Thailand are very familiar to Aussies, but the north of the country is a road less travelled.

Northern Thailand offers a rich diversity of cultural experiences. If you’re planning a visit to the region, this episode of Tour the World with On The Go Tours — hosted by The Big Bus tour and travel guide’s regular contributor Jade Harrison — is packed with Northern Thailand travel ideas and inspiration, including culture, food, history, shopping and relaxation must-sees and dos.

Whether you plan to travel with a tour group or independently, in this episode you’ll get information about Bangkok, the Bridge over the River Kwai, fascinating Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and the infamous Golden Triangle.

Here are Jade’s top five experiences from this amazing tour.

Northern Thailand travel ideas

Five top things to do in Northern Thailand

Northern Thailand offers travellers an experience that’s full of culture and history.

While filming for the Tour the World TV series, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to join a ten-day tour through Northern Thailand. It definitely felt like an adventure, but it was relaxing at the same time.

Here are five top things to do in Northern Thailand.

Northern Thailand travel ideas: River Kwai Jungle Rafts Hotel

Unwind at the River Kwai Jungle Rafts Hotel

First on my list of top things to do in Northern Thailand is the River Kwai Jungle Rafts Hotel. This place absolutely blew my mind. A bamboo hotel that floats — it’s just as amazing as it sounds. Forget your hairdryer and phone charger though. There’s no electricity!

The gentle flow of the River Kwai makes for some good fun. Throw a life jacket off one end of the hotel, grab hold and let the current float you all the way to the other end!

Experience Hellfire Pass and the Burma Railway

The Burma Railway and Hellfire Pass make my list of top things to do in Northern Thailand based on the impact they had on all of us on the tour. Thousands of Australian POWs lost their lives during the construction of the railway during World War II, when Thailand was under the control of Japanese forces. A journey on the railway and a walk through the pass are really emotive ways to pay your respects.

Explore Sukhothai Historical Park by bike

The Sukhothai Historical Park is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed archeological site that features temples and structures from the old kingdom of Sukhothai, which flourished here in the 13th and 14th centuries. It’s regarded as the first capital of Siam.

The site is very spread out and the best way to get around is by bicycle. They’re available for hire for about 30 baht ($1.50). You can then set off and explore the ruins at your own pace.

Northern Thailand travel ideas: Sukhothai Historical Park

Visit the Thai Elephant Conservation Centre

The Thai Elephant Conservation Centre is Thailand’s original elephant school and conservation facility. It’s owned by the Thai Government and is home to around fifty Asian elephants. The facilities include a hospital and nursery, where you can hand feed the baby elephants (just remember to peel the bananas for them!).

The centre welcomes visitors and it’s possible to train as a mahout. There wasn’t anything contrived about the facility and it didn’t seem overly touristy.

Soak up the charm of Chiang Mai

Thailand doesn’t get any more charming than Chiang Mai. A visit here is definitely one of the top things to do in Northern Thailand. Chiang Mai is one of the busiest cities in the north, but it just oozes character and a laid back feel. There are more cafes here than in any city in the south, and Chang Mai has a really creative vibe. You’ll find amazing arts and crafts on offer.

About the writer

Jade Harrison is a presenter on the Tour the World travel series on Network Ten and a freelance travel writer, and has travelled to New Zealand, Hawaii, Canada, USA, Mexico, the UK, Europe, Thailand, Brazil, India and Nepal — including a trek to Annapurna Base Camp! Jade loves all aspects of travel — from roughing it in the Himalayas, to backpacking through Europe, to enjoying some five-star luxury along the way.

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Dear Author, I love exploring new places but I haven’t got a chance to explore Thailand. Though am not a very religious and spiritual person, the attractive pictures and your write up has ignited a longing in me to visit these places. I hope to plan my trip to Thailand very soon and your blog has given lots of inputs.